JUDACULLA ROCK FAST FACTS
LOCATION: Jackson County, Western North Carolina
HOURS: Open all year round
COST: FREE
TIME TO COMPLETE: 20 minutes
ACCOMODATIONS: Side of road parking available. No restrooms.
The Judaculla Rock, a large boulder containing over 1,500 carved, pecked and smoothed designs, represents one of the greatest archaeological mysteries in North America. Located in Jackson County, North Carolina, the rock has been dated back to the late Archaic Period, between 3000 and 1000 BC. While this actually predates the arrival of the first Native American societies, the Cherokee believe this is sacred ground and the Judaculla Rock still holds special significance for them.
It is believed the carvings on the 16’ long x 11’ wide (4.9m x 3.4m) petroglyph began around 1,500 years ago and continued till the time of European settlement. Exactly what the carvings and etchings mean remains a mystery to this day but it’s commonly thought they represent various Cherokee legends and myths. Unfortunately the Judaculla Rock continues to erode naturally so many of the etchings are becoming difficult to decipher.
The name Judaculla is interpreted to mean the Great Slant-eyed Giant who was all-powerful and able to control the thunder, lightning, rain and wind. He also was the Master of Animals which has led some historians to think the Judaculla Rock served as a boundary marker for the Cherokee hunting grounds. A particular mark on the lower right of the rock is believed to be the paw print of Judaculla, a mark also found on other boulders throughout Cherokee lands.
The Judaculla Rock, around 20 minutes drive southeast of downtown Sylva, NC, is easy to find despite its remote location. From the NC-107 (Main St) turn onto Caney Fork Rd then take a left on Judaculla Rd (or just follow the signage from NC-017). Judaculla Rd dead-ends at private residences but there is an impromptu parking area available. The rock itself can be seen from the road and closer views are just a short path down to a semi-circular wooden platform. Along with the rock there are also displays with information about the rock and its history.
The Cherokee Judaculla Rock is a fascinating slice of history and a worthwhile roadside attraction to add to your itinerary if ever in southwestern North Carolina.
